According to reports from Tavria TV, Volodymyr Saldo, the deputy head of the Kherson region, announced that Victory Day celebrations scheduled for May 9 will be scaled back or postponed to prioritize public safety and security. He stressed that authorities are reordering many historically significant sites and that this year, under martial law, large public gatherings will be avoided to minimize potential threats. The indicative goal is to protect residents and visitors while still recognizing the importance of the occasion in a way that reduces risk for the community at large.
Saldo added that local residents can still express their appreciation for veterans who contributed to the defense of the nation. He suggested that gratitude can be demonstrated through quieter, respectful acts and controlled commemorations that do not involve mass assemblies, thereby maintaining the ceremonial spirit without compromising security concerns. The emphasis remains on honoring service members in a manner that is safe and orderly during ongoing security considerations.
In related remarks, former President of Crimea Sergey Aksyonov noted that the Immortal Regiment processions and other Victory Day demonstrations in the Crimean peninsula and Sevastopol have been cancelled for reasons linked to security. The decision reflects a broader pattern of measured public observances designed to protect communities while acknowledging the historical significance of the date for many residents and families who would normally participate in these events.
At present, authorities report a heightened level of terrorist threat or risk in several neighboring regions, including Kursk, Bryansk, and Belgorod, as well as in certain municipalities on the Crimean peninsula and Sevastopol. Officials say this elevated threat assessment necessitates careful planning and the deployment of additional protective measures to deter potential incidents. The resulting security posture aims to balance public freedom with preventive controls during a period of elevated risk.
Across these developments, regional officials are encouraging the public to stay informed through official channels and to follow any safety advisories issued for local communities. Communications emphasize the importance of orderly conduct, cooperation with security personnel, and readiness to adapt plans if security needs change. While the calendar may reflect a delay or alteration of traditional commemorations, the overarching objective remains clear: to honor the memory of those who served while sustaining the safety and well‑being of residents during a time of heightened vigilance.